The idea began two years ago when I read “How to Blog a Book” by Nina Amir. Since that time, I have recommended Amir’s book to many of my writing clients.
The jist of her book is the process of using blog content – already written, edited and published online – to create a hard copy print book.
When I finished Amir’s book, I looked up and said, “Well, duh!”
After blogging for five years, I had enough content for several books, but I wanted to focus on only one theme, one category and one idea.
The decision was easy. “Sometimes They Forget” – the collection of essays I have written about the caregiving journey through Alzheimer’s Disease.
This book, unlike the Reverend G trilogy, tugged at my desire for authenticity as the long-distance caregiver and forced me to dig deep – then deeper still – to reach those painful places in my soul.
I needed to record how the awful reality feels when Alzheimer’s invades a family.
From the cemetery wanderings when I visited my ancestors’ graves to the honesty of admitting how we must sometimes lie to Mom. The inclusion of holiday tips for caregivers, the seven stages of Alzheimer’s and caregiving tips I share when I speak at events – all these posts present some practical ideas for families dealing with this brutal disease.
I am hoping families just entering Stage One will feel encouraged to know others have gone before them and survived.
As I re-read my essay asking the why question, it caused me to review my faith values and underscore the truth that even if I cannot understand why God allowed this disease to enter my mother’s life, I will still trust his heart.
My goal was to finish the book before Christmas 2016, but then the Great Virus invaded. Illness interrupted my timeline.
The deadline changed with a new target date which I am pleased to announce – I WILL meet.
February 3rd is my mother’s birthday – 88 years. “Sometimes They Forget” will be released on that day and soon after – on Kindle. The book is an acknowledgement of her courage and a small way to honor her.
You, my blog followers, have encouraged me with your comments and with your appreciation of my words. I hope you will also consider this new book as a memorial to my mother and as a way to make it through your own Alzheimer’s journey – or share it with someone else.
The sub-title of “Sometimes They Forget” is “Finding Hope in the Alzheimer’s Journey.” My prayer is that hope will multiply and the ripple effect will bring some measure of peace to those families who live with the Long Good-bye.
Thank you for your support and for your prayers as this book is released on February 3rd.
©2017 RJ Thesman, Author of the Reverend G Trilogy http://amzn.to/1rXlCyh
I am so excited for you! Will be praying for success and outreach!
Love, Amy
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Thanks, Amy. And right back at ya’ for your book(s).
LOVE the cover! I know this book will be a blessing to many.
Thank you, Molly – my prayer as well !
Congratulations! I look forward to reading your new book.
Thanks, Ginger. Booksigning at Signs of Life on March 25 at 11am.
Blessings and Congratulations. I’m not sure if I will be able to read more than a few pages at a time because of my own situation with a 92 year old and a 96 year old. I predict you have an award winner here.
Thanks, Zeta. Yes…such a tough topic, but I’m hopeful it will be helpful and encouraging to others.
Mom will be 89 on Feb 3
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Thanks – yeah, I saw the typo today.
The book sounds good, Rebecca. You did a good job of introducing it.
Thanks, Judith. I am hoping it will be a blessing to many!
So happy about your latest book! Thank you for your continued inspiration!
Thanks, Susan! Appreciate your encouragement!